Glens Return to Lasswade

Glens will meet hosts Lasswade along with Livingston and Portobello in the group stages of the excellent Lasswade tournament this year.

Glens played at Lasswade last year and, despite losing all three group games to higher league opposition in the shape of Watsonians, Hamilton and Lasswade, enjoyed the experience immensely.

A number of key players may be unavailable for the trip but there should still be a strong squad available to select from.

It will provide an early opportunity for the Glens' coaches to cast an eye over some of the newcomers to the club, youngsters graduating from age group rugby and others who are likely to be trying out in new positions.

Players who experienced Lasswade last year are already excited at the prospect of a return to what was an extremely well run and enjoyable event.

It has been a long time since the Glens faced Portobello or new town rivals Livingston and the men from Carleton will be hoping to improve on their showing last year and clock up a first win if possible.

But according to head coach Tom Hainey that is not important at this stage.

"Lasswade is not about winning. It is a first opportunity for the squad to work together in a competitive arena but under no pressure to deliver results. What we will want to see though is a genuine attempt to put into practice some of the basics we have been working on at training."

He went on to say that this season's squad had been significantly strengthened and that he was looking forward to seeing how the new look units perform against teams from higher leagues.

Lasswade will play in the newly formed Championship this season while both Livingston and Portobello will ply their trade in East Division 1.

Also taking part in the tournament will be Haddington, RHC, Preston Lodge and Cumbernauld.

Kick off time for the tournament will be confirmed shortly.